free samples: vector motifs from christopher dresser “studies in design”
Every so often (though probably not on a set schedule) I will post free downloads of vector design motifs, patterns, borders, taken from decorative arts sources of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Some of the designers represented: Rene Beauclaire, Christoper Dresser, Eugene Grasset, Owen Jones, William Morris, Auguste Racinet, Maurice Pillard Verneuil. Charles F.A. Voysey, as well as lesser-known designers.
Designs are ‘hand’ traced and in full color. The plates used as the tracing source have faded so the colors may not be an exact match to the original. Colors are rendered in RGB mode which provides the widest gamut for the closest match. Files are fully customizable (colors, proportions, shapes, etc.) using Illustrator. As vector drawings, the designs are fully scalable so they can be adapted for use in websites or for print. Color rendering can be changed to CMYK if needed for printing.
Files are available in Illustrator .ai format (including pattern swatches and pattern border brushes). Non-repeatable motifs are also available in .eps format.
These free examples are part of larger collections that can be purchased. The catalogue of currently available collections can be found in the Marketplace (in the right sidebar).
Both the Marketplace and the collection of free samples is growing, so bookmark this page.
Enjoy!
Sample vector motifs from Studies in Design, Christoper Dresser (1834-1904):
Download Illustrator (.ai) files (dresser_motif009f_ai.zip)
Download .eps files (dresser_motif009f_eps.zip)
Purchase 40 motifs from Studies in Design – $11.00